Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day. This Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup combines the rich flavors of chicken soup with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, making it an irresistible choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The unique blend of textures and flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This soup provides the warmth and satisfaction of two favorites in one bowl.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s perfect for picky eaters.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily adapt this recipe with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just over an hour, it’s an easy weeknight solution.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before we dive into making this delicious soup, let’s gather the essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for preparing the soup base and accommodating all ingredients comfortably.
• Grater: Helps you achieve perfectly grated cheese that melts smoothly into the soup.
• Whisk: Aids in creating a smooth roux and prevents lumps when adding liquids.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dry mustard powder

For the Creamy Base

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

For the Cheese

• 4 cups (1 lb) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated

Optional Garnishes

• chopped fresh parsley
• snipped fresh chives
• extra shredded cheddar
• crumbled crispy beef turkey bacon
• croutons

How to Make Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Step 1: Prepare Vegetables & Cheese

Start by finely dicing your onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic, then grate both sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If you’re using raw chicken, sear 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts in 1 tbsp olive oil until cooked through; then shred or dice.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Spices

In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for about 8–10 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic along with dried thyme, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder; cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create Roux & Soup Base

Stir in ¼ cup of flour and cook for about 2–3 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of chicken broth followed by 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Melt Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add both grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Avoid boiling after adding cheese as it could affect consistency.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

In a separate pot, cook 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly before adding to soup.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Add the cooked chicken (or use your pre-cooked option) along with drained macaroni into the soup mixture. Stir gently and let it simmer on low for another 5–10 minutes to meld flavors together. Adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your choice of parsley, chives, extra cheese, turkey bacon bits, or croutons.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is best enjoyed fresh, but there are several delightful ways to serve it that can elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will make your soup even more special.

Classic Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Snipped Fresh Chives: Offers a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar: For those who can’t get enough cheese, sprinkle some on top before serving.

Accompanying Breads

• Crusty Bread Rolls: Perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful crunch that pairs well with the rich soup.
• Breadsticks: A fun, easy-to-hold option for enjoying alongside your soup.

Creative Additions

• Crispy Beef Turkey Bacon: Sprinkled on top for added texture and flavor.
• Homemade Croutons: Provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creaminess of the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

To achieve the ultimate Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, consider these handy tips. Each step can enhance flavor, texture, and overall satisfaction.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly improve the taste and aroma of your soup.
• Gradually Add Cheese: Melt cheese slowly over low heat to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth texture.
• Adjust Consistency: Customize thickness by adding extra broth or milk if the soup is too thick or reducing it if it’s too thin.
• Taste as You Go: Season gradually throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors without overpowering any single ingredient.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different types of cheese for unique flavors; gouda or fontina can add a twist!
• Blend Vegetables for Picky Eaters: If you have fussy eaters, blend in vegetables like carrots or spinach into the broth for added nutrition without being detected.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors of this hearty soup.

1. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette adds freshness and balances creamy textures.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring depth and flavor to your meal.
3. Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and beans make for an exciting side dish that’s filling yet healthy.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs are perfect for dipping in your soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option packed with protein, this salad can be made with various fresh ingredients to match your taste preferences.
7. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese make an irresistible addition that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Boldly Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can turn it mushy in the soup. Aim for al dente to maintain texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning your broth and cheese mixture can lead to blandness. Always taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper.
• Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Adding cheese at high heat may cause it to clump. Reduce heat to low and melt cheese slowly for a smooth result.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. For best results, grate your cheese fresh.
• Not Allowing Flavors to Meld: Skipping the simmer stage can prevent flavors from developing fully. Always let the soup simmer after adding ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish, covered, for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup that might help you out.

Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?

Yes! Leftover shredded or diced chicken is perfect for this recipe and makes it quicker to prepare.

What type of cheese works best in Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

Sharp cheddar is great for flavor, while Monterey Jack adds creaminess. Feel free to mix cheeses based on your preference!

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or corn starch as a thickening agent.

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach, peas, or roasted butternut squash for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup?

This soup pairs well with bread rolls or a light salad for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Macaroni Cheese Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and customizable! You can easily adapt it by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping cheeses based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family will love it!